Sunday, July 18, 2010
free dj software
The Mixxx team is pleased to announce the second beta of Mixxx 1.8.0! This release brings a large number of bug fixes, performance improvements, and even some small new features
.
Here's a summary of the changes in this release:
.Here's a summary of the changes in this release:
- Library:
- Massive optimization of the new SQLite database-powered library, including:
- Faster searches
- In-memory caching layer which minimizes hard disk access
- Faster library scanning
- Fixed some Auto DJ bugs
- Added tooltips to library table
- Polished up song Properties dialog
- Library search now looks at album names too
- Fixed minor library rescanning bugs
- Fixed crate and playlist creation bugs
- Fixed drag-and-drop from network shares on Windows
- Show iTunes playlists as sorted
- Audio:
- Added plugin architecture for audio playback
- Fixed some cueing bugs with pitch-independent time stretch
- Improvements to vinyl emulation sound quality
- Improved performance by optimizing hard disk access for audio decoding
- Legacy 1.7 library importer now imports cue points
- Faster MP3 loading
- Improved reliability with certain MP3s and OGGs
- MIDI:
- Improved scratching with the SCS.3d
- Timers now available in MIDI scripts
- Fullscreen key changed to F11 to conform to de-facto standard.
- Tons of other bug fixes!
Hotcues
Since everyone's been waiting ever so patiently for this release, we decided to slip a bonus in for you. Mixxx 1.8.0 Beta 2 adds hotcues, which are cue points that start playing when triggered. These are handy for impromptu drumming and remixing because you can trigger different parts of a song quickly. Although our default "Outline Netbook" skin doesn't yet show the hotcue positions on the main scrolling waveform display, the hotcues do show up in the smaller waveform summary.
The keyboard shortcuts for hotcues are Z, X, C, and V on Player 1, and M, <, >, and ? on Player 2. Now go chop some beats! (Update: Forgot to mention that using the Shift key in combination with the above keys clears the hot cues.)
Since everyone's been waiting ever so patiently for this release, we decided to slip a bonus in for you. Mixxx 1.8.0 Beta 2 adds hotcues, which are cue points that start playing when triggered. These are handy for impromptu drumming and remixing because you can trigger different parts of a song quickly. Although our default "Outline Netbook" skin doesn't yet show the hotcue positions on the main scrolling waveform display, the hotcues do show up in the smaller waveform summary.
The keyboard shortcuts for hotcues are Z, X, C, and V on Player 1, and M, <, >, and ? on Player 2. Now go chop some beats! (Update: Forgot to mention that using the Shift key in combination with the above keys clears the hot cues.)
Audio Playback Plugins
The new audio playback plugin framework lets you to install third-party plugins that give Mixxx the ability to playback extra audio formats. Sometimes support for an obscure audio format is difficult to maintain or may be legally encumbered in certain jurisdictions, either of which would preventing us from supporting it. However, third-party developers can now add support for extra audio formats to Mixxx at their own discretion.
The Mixxx Development Team will not distribute audio playback plugins that carry legal uncertainty for us. The responsibility is solely yours to ensure that you are legally entitled to obtain and use any playback plugins provided by a third-party.
Although we don't have any official audio playback plugins available yet, we'd like to invite developers to post their plugins on the Mixxx Add-ons wiki page.
The Road to 1.8.0
Over the next month or so, we'll be wrapping up development of 1.8.0. We've still got many bugs to fix (and could use your help), but we think this latest beta release is a big improvement over the previous one. Give it a shot, and please report any bugs you find! Enjoy, and stay tuned for more news as we finally approach Mixxx 1.8.0.
The new audio playback plugin framework lets you to install third-party plugins that give Mixxx the ability to playback extra audio formats. Sometimes support for an obscure audio format is difficult to maintain or may be legally encumbered in certain jurisdictions, either of which would preventing us from supporting it. However, third-party developers can now add support for extra audio formats to Mixxx at their own discretion.
The Mixxx Development Team will not distribute audio playback plugins that carry legal uncertainty for us. The responsibility is solely yours to ensure that you are legally entitled to obtain and use any playback plugins provided by a third-party.
Although we don't have any official audio playback plugins available yet, we'd like to invite developers to post their plugins on the Mixxx Add-ons wiki page.
The Road to 1.8.0
Over the next month or so, we'll be wrapping up development of 1.8.0. We've still got many bugs to fix (and could use your help), but we think this latest beta release is a big improvement over the previous one. Give it a shot, and please report any bugs you find! Enjoy, and stay tuned for more news as we finally approach Mixxx 1.8.0.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
DJ Tricks - 3 Top DJ Tricks
DJ's that like to perform tricks are always on the look out for new tricks and techniques to
perform. If done correctly, DJ tricks can be look and sound very impressive indeed! In this
article we will talk about 3 DJ tricks you can learn and implement at your own will.
DJ trick 1 - How to play a record backwards.
This trick is more suited to a vestax PDX-A2. What you need to do is take an ashtray a little thicker than the cartridge on your turntable or deck and position it upside down & centered on the slipmat of the turntable. Take a piece of sticky gum and stick a record centered on top of the ashtray, what the gum does is it helps hold it in place. Flip the cartridge upside down and then screw it back onto the tonal arm. You need to also weight the tonal arm so that it has the tendency to spring upward instead of down. When you have that done, start the record and slide the tonal arm underneath the record as far as you can towards the ashtray and it will play your record backwards. Its a pretty cool trick when you get it working.
DJ trick 2 - Add your own drum record
The second trick you need to do is have a record playing on one deck and set the tonal arm on the beginning or the end of the record where no music is written. Then have the record
stopped and tap on the record with your finger. What happens is the vibration from your
tapping on the record will sound like a base beat. Just tap in beat with the other record to
fatten up the base or add your own percussive touch. Its tough to get it first off but with
practice you'll be good at it eventually!
DJ Trick 3 - Use two of the same records to achieve a reverb or delay effect.
This trick is pretty popular and I've seen lots of DJ's work this off to a "T". What you need
to do for this trick is take two records of the same song and get them in beat with each
other. You want to make sure that the songs are literally over laid exactly on top of each
other. So... assuming that you have that in order, take the base out of the record that you
are about to mix in and bring the track in. Once this is done, slowly blend the pitch very
delicately and you will start to hear a reverb effect! For the delay effect all you need to
do repeat the procedure except slip the record out of beat and then fade in and out for a
delay effect.
There you have it. 3 cool DJ tricks for you to get cracking on! You may not get these at
first, but practice makes perfect. Now go get em DJ!
Magma Digital DJ Switchbox .V2
The new MAGMA SWITCHBOX .V2makes it easier than ever to transition between two digital DJ’s, without having to unplug the decks and mixer to connect a new soundcard. It provides a hustle-free DJ swap, enabling two DJ audio interfaces to be connected simultaneously to a mixer - even a two channel battle mixer.
The MAGMA SWITCHBOX .V2 features a three-way selector switch to assign the signal from each deck to either interface to switch between two digital DJ setups, or send it directly to the mixer (THRU).
In addition to switching between two soundcards, the MAGMA SWITCHBOX features connections for two turntables and two CD players. A Mode switch enables either system to be controlled via CD or vinyl.
Forget the days of unplugging one deck at a time when you finish your set, and reaching behind the mixer to fish for your cables. You can now patch into the system without getting in the way of the previous DJ finishing his set. When you are ready to play your first record, just select a deck from the MAGMA SWITCHBOX and you are good to go. When you are done with your set, you can unplug at anytime without interrupting the next DJ.
The MAGMA SWITCHBOX 2.0 is also great for Tag Team DJing and DJ crews. So if there are 2 DJs performing with each of their laptops (DJ A: Traktor Scratch and DJ B: Serato), the turntables (or CD-players) can easily be routed towards the desired audio source.
Features:
- Works with all DVS systems including Traktor Scratch and Serato Scratch Live
- Connect to and switch between two digital DJ-systems/ interfaces with a traditional DJ setup
- Switch between two interfaces without RCA re-patching for simple DJ transitions
- 3-way selector switch assigns the signal from the decks to Interface A, Interface B, or Thru to the mixer
- Both digital systems can be controlled with Timecode Vinyl as well as with Timecode CDs
- Passive : No power supply required
- Includes RCA cable-snake
ROLAND VP-7 VOCAL PROCESSOR NOW AVAILABLE
Roland is pleased to announce that the new VP-7 Vocal Processor (www.RolandUS.com/Products/VP-7) is now available in stores. This portable vocal processor sets up quickly on top of keyboards and creates ensemble vocal sounds with a variety of PCM-based vocal sounds, or with Roland’s superior Vocal Designer® technology.
For keyboardists who want lush vocal backing tracks without singing into a microphone, the compact VP-7 includes four rich and expressive human voice sounds — Female Choir, Boys Choir, Gregorian Choirs and Jazz Scat — just by playing the keyboard.
Utilizing Vocal Designer technology derived from Roland’s VP-Series vocal & ensemble keyboards, the VP-7 has three Vocal Designer algorithms that can automatically generate multi-voice backing harmonies that sing the same lyrics as a performer sings into the included DR-HS5 headset microphone.
Pressing the Vocoder button allows for quick access to a talkbox, vintage vocoder, or modern vocoder effect. Keyboardists can also go deeper into seven additional vocoder variations that have natural human voice sounds. This allows for the performance of independent harmony lines that complement the lead vocalist.
The VP-7’s super-simple interface features large, quick-access buttons and knobs, so it’s easy to call up preset sounds and adjust blends on the fly. Onboard ambience effects sweeten the sound with the twist of a knob, while a handy bypass switch lets the user bring the VP-7’s processing in and out with the push of a button, or with a tap of the optional DP-2 footswitch.
The VP-7 is now available with an MSRP of $639.00.
REVIEW: Livid Ohm64
In these day of mass produced plastic controllers, it's nice to see that at least one manufacturer remembers the good old days when DJ gear actually had wood on it (and real meters too). But enough showing my age - Livid is a company hand crafting beautiful controllers in the good ole US of A. No plastic boxes here - all machined from a variety of materials, and assembled with love. The Ohm64 is one such stunning controller, and resident button basher Chris Cartledge cast his experienced eye over this object d'art.Not exactly being gifted in the ways of Ableton, there was little point in yours truly giving the Ohm64 a beating. I did the obligatory plugging and prepping for photography - firing up the Ohm64 editor, Ableton and Traktor for some very quick testing. I soon realised that unlike much of the sausage factory gear I get to play with, I actually connected with the Ohm64 almost on a personal level. Because of the unique character of the Ohm64, and the hand made nature, it really feels like my Ohm64. Make sense?
But if an off the shelf Ohm64 isn't enough for you, Livid will also make one of your own for you. Using this somewhat nifty designer, your Ohm64 can come in 9 different body colours, 4 different LED colours and 3 choices of faceplate. It does cost a bit more of course, and the chance for car crash colours scheme is high, but at least you get choice, and that's good I'm told.If you're wanting something different, personal and highly customisable from your MIDI controlling experience, you really cannot get much better than Livid's Ohm64. Read Chris Cartledge's review and see if it measures up to your expectations.
How to Become a DJ
Music fans with a flair for entertainment may consider learning how to become a DJ. If you enjoy spinning records or playing CDs for your family and friends you may consider trying your hand at entertaining a live audience. If this interest you, you may consider pursuing a career as a professional DJ. However, there is more to it than just the music; you will need to multi-task, become a master at using the DJ equipment, and above all, learn how to keep your audience entertained. The information below will provide you with an introduction to the skills, equipment and techniques you will need to become a successful DJ.
If you love listening to music, keeping up with the latest music trends, and playing pre-recorded music before a live audience, becoming a professional DJ may be the perfect career for you. However, DJing involves much more than just simply playing records, CDs or MP3s for a group of people. You must learn how to effectively use DJ equipment and master the skill of seamlessly transitioning from one song to the next. Above all, you should be able to keep your crowd engaged, entertained, and most importantly, dancing.
Becoming a professional DJ can be a highly rewarding career for those who enjoy playing music for a live audience. As a DJ, part of your job will be following the latest music trends, constantly expanding your music collection and keeping up with the latest industry technology. There are always new skills and techniques to learn, practice and perfect, meaning that you will be constantly learning and developing.
Basic DJ Skills
First of all, to become a successful DJ, you must have a love for and interest in music.1 Starting out, you should enjoy listening to, learning more about, and constantly building your music collection. You will also need to keep up with the latest releases and music trends. In order to keep current, you may want to consider doing one or all of the following:
- Find a local music shop with knowledgeable staff and visit regularly
- Join online DJing and music forums
- Keep up to date with new releases and trends by reading music publications, either online, or by buying magazine subscriptions
- Seek out and befriend other DJs in your area; if you can, try to build a network of like-minded individuals with whom you can share ideas, tips and tricks of the trade
Visit local clubs and observe other DJs at work. Either through observation or conversation (although it's not a good idea to try to pick a DJ's brain during his set), figure out what he's doing and why. Observe how he mixes music and interacts with the crowd.2
Having a DJ Personality
In addition to being a music lover, you must also have the right type of personality to become a successful DJ. This requires a unique balance of extroverted and introverted qualities. You must be outgoing to promote yourself and interact effectively with a wide group of people, but must also be able to withstand and enjoy the solitude of working alone for long hours in the DJ booth.3
You should also be able to efficiently perform several tasks at once. Without interrupting your set, you may need to speak with audience or club staff members who approach you to chat or make requests.
One of the key aspects of becoming a successful DJ is learning how to read the crowd. Although you must always have at least one ear and eye on the music you are playing, you must also be aware of your audience at all times. Watch how they respond to what you're playing, and always be prepared to switch it up if they don't seem to be enjoying what you're playing.
Prepare for DJ Work Hours
- Keep in mind that DJs do not work regular nine-to-five hours. Being a professional DJ will require that you work mostly evenings and weekends, and your job will often keep you up and away from home into the late night and early morning hours. In order to maintain and grow your fan base, you may also be asked to travel both within your own country, as well as internationally.
DJ Equipment
To begin DJing, you will need at least four basic pieces of equipment:- Headphones
- Mixer
- Dual audio player: Either turntables, variable speed CD players/mixers, or MP3 players
- A large selection of music: Depending on what type of player you'll be using, either records, CDs, or MP3s
These four pieces of equipment will get you set up to practice your skills, but once you begin DJing professionally, you will also have to purchase speakers, an amplifier, and, if you choose, a microphone.4
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Practice Makes Perfect
- Because DJ equipment can be expensive, if you haven't done any DJing before, it's a good idea try it out and get some practice before spending hundreds or thousands of dollars on your own equipment. If you have a friend with DJ equipment, ask if you can practice using his equipment. You may also be able to use the equipment at a local bar or club during off hours if you have a good rapport with the owner or manager.5 6
- Once you have access to equipment, practice as much as you can. The players and mixer will have several different functions, such as cross-faders, gain, volume, pitch, and so forth. Practice playing around with the different controls to experience what they do and learn how to manipulate them to get different effects. Practice switching back and forth between songs and alternating between your two players since this is arguably the most important skill a DJ must possess. Deliberately make mistakes so that when you make errors during a live performance, you are more likely to know how to fix the problem and less apt to lose your cool.7
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The Basics
At its core, DJing is all about mixing music and keeping your audience entertained. Regardless of whether you're playing at a wedding or a huge rave, the basics remain the same: You want to create an enjoyable stream of music for your audience, keeping them entertained and, in most cases, dancing.8
If you're an aspiring club DJ, one of the key aspects you'll have to learn is beatmixing (sometimes called beat matching). Beatmixing refers to matching the bass beats of two songs so that the transition between the two tracks is seamless.9 Perfecting this skill may take a great deal of practice, but doing so will further familiarize you with your equipment and controls.
Once you have learned the basics, continue to experiment and learn more advanced skills, such as scratching and backspinning.3 -
Early Performances
- For your first few gigs, consider hosting your own free party or DJing at a friend's house. That way, you will be able to practice your skills in front of a sympathetic audience and will likely be less nervous than if you were DJing for a large group of strangers. Also, since you aren't getting paid you'll have nothing to lose if you make mistakes. After your set, ask friends for feedback—figure out what the attendees did and didn't enjoy and use this information to perfect your style and technique. Once you have learned the basic skills, you may be able to practice and hone your skills at a small local or college radio station.
Getting Your First Gig
Once you feel you're ready to pursue DJing professionally, go out and promote yourself. To start with, it's a good idea to create a website with basic information where people can go to find out more about you if they are interested. Also consider printing some leaflets or business cards that you can distribute to interested parties.
Check out upcoming events to see if there are any fairs or expos at which you can rent booth space for further exposure.
If you're interested in DJing at clubs, visit clubs in your area and introduce yourself to the manager or owner. It's possible that you may luck out and find a club that happens to be in need of a DJ, but, if not, be sure to leave a good impression and a business card behind so they can contact you if they need your services in the future. If you live in a large city, it may also be possible to forge an affiliation with a management or booking agency that will help you find gigs, although you may have to pay a registration or finder's fee.
The most important thing is to talk to everyone you can who is involved in the industry, from club owners to other DJs. Volunteer at local radio stations to get experience and exposure. Get your name out there and network with others in your industry.
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